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Micro USB

USB Micro-B

Standard: USB-IF Last updated: 2025-01-21

Micro USB was mandated by the EU in 2009 as a common charging standard, leading to its widespread adoption on Android phones. It was designed to be more durable than Mini USB with a rated 10,000 insertion cycles. However, its non-reversible design and fragile-feeling connector led to its replacement by USB-C starting around 2015-2016.

Quick Specifications

Max Speed

5 Gbps

Max Power

4.5W

Pins

5

Reversible

No

⚠️ Common Confusion Points

  • USB 3.0 Micro-B is a completely different, wider connector than USB 2.0 Micro-B
  • USB 2.0 Micro-B cables fit into USB 3.0 Micro-B ports, but only at USB 2.0 speeds
  • USB 3.0 Micro-B cables do NOT fit into USB 2.0 Micro-B ports
  • Micro USB and Mini USB are different connectors - Micro is smaller and flatter
  • OTG (On-The-Go) cables have a special pin configuration allowing devices to act as hosts
  • Many cheap Micro USB cables are charge-only with no data wires - test before trusting

Protocols & Versions

Protocol Data Rate Power Max Length
USB 2.0 (2.0) 480 Mbps 2.5W (500mA @ 5V), up to 7.5W with BC 1.2 5m
USB 3.0 Micro-B (3.0 (SuperSpeed Micro-B)) 5 Gbps 4.5W (900mA @ 5V) 3m

USB 2.0 Features

Hi-Speed Charging (BC 1.2) OTG support

Cable requirements: Standard Micro USB cable

USB 3.0 Micro-B Features

SuperSpeed Wider connector with additional pins

Cable requirements: USB 3.0 Micro-B cable (wider connector)

Connector Specifications

Shape
trapezoidal
Pins
5 (1 rows)
Width × Height
6.85 × 1.8 mm
Depth
5 mm
Reversible
No
Pin Pitch
0.65 mm

Electrical Specifications

Max Voltage
5V
Max Current
0.9A
Max Power
4.5W
Impedance
90Ω differential (USB 3.0)

Compatibility

Backwards Compatible With

  • USB 1.1

Can Adapt To

  • USB-A
  • USB-C

Can Adapt From

  • USB-A
  • USB-C

Common Uses

  • Older Android smartphones (pre-2016)
  • E-readers (Kindle)
  • Bluetooth speakers and headphones
  • Portable chargers/power banks
  • Digital cameras
  • Game controllers (PS4, older Xbox)
  • GPS devices
  • Older tablets

Buying Guide

For most devices, any Micro USB cable works. For external hard drives or devices needing USB 3.0 speeds, you need the wider USB 3.0 Micro-B cable. For charging, look for cables rated for 2A or higher current. Beware of extremely cheap cables that may be charge-only (missing data wires) or poorly shielded.

Also Known As

Micro USB Micro-B Micro USB-B

Data Sources